What is the strongest basis for linking infrastructure expansion with deforestation?

Correct answer: Continuous demand for land and timber for railways, roads and construction

Answer: A, continuous demand for land and timber for railways, roads and construction. Infrastructure is made of physical routes and structures, so it requires space and materials. Railways and roads need corridors through land; bridges, sleepers, buildings and other construction may require timber. Under colonial rule, such infrastructure was closely connected with administration, movement of goods and trade. Repeated construction and expansion could therefore reduce forest cover. B is impossible because infrastructure needs land. C is wrong because colonial infrastructure supported movement and trade. D is wrong because construction can remove vegetation rather than always increase forest area. Memory cue: infrastructure leaves a physical footprint—land for routes and materials for structures.